Marcos to issue EO making indoor mask-wearing voluntary

President Bongbong Marcos is set to issue an executive order making mask-wearing voluntary in indoor spaces, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco announced in a Palace press briefing on Tuesday. 

"As a result of the Cabinet meeting this morning, it was agreed that the President would be issuing an executive order for the IATF recommendation to make indoor mask-wearing also voluntary all over the Philippines," Frasco said. 

However, wearing masks will remain mandatory for individuals taking public transportation, medical transportation, and when they are inside medical facilities. 

"Mask-wearing would also be highly encouraged for unvaccinated individuals, the persons with comorbidities as well as senior citizens," she said. 

Frasco said the decision was made to allow the Philippines to be at par with its ASEAN neighbors, which have long eased their mask-wearing policies.

Meanwhile, the One Health Pass requirement for all individuals entering the Philippines will be replaced by the "E-arrival platform."

"In addition to these, it was also agreed that the One Health pass would be removed as already publicly announced and replaced with an E-Arrival platform that introduces great convenience to our travelers and tourists in the sense that the interface is more user-friendly," she said. 

The President on Tuesday morning presided over a Cabinet meeting to discuss easing travel restrictions in the country.